They are supported by personnel from across the RAF from Airspace Battle Managers and Air Traffic Controllers to the Squadron Engineers who, like the Pilots, take shifts to ensure QRA aircraft are permanently ready to fly.

While on duty, QRA pilots are prepared in their flying suits to take to the skies at a moment’s notice with their aircraft armed and ready. Where there are indications that an aviation security incident might develop, pilots will standby in the cockpit, ensuring aircraft can take off even more swiftly.

This allows the RAF to respond across the country and over the seas around the UK, to defend against potential threats.